Our Organist

Richard Van Oss

Richard Van Oss is our organist at First Reformed Church, a position he has held since the fall of 1985. He also directs the Junior Choir (4 year olds through 5th grade). His wife Cheryl directs the Chancel and Bell Choirs, and together they are our Co-Directors of Music. Mr. Van Oss is a 1975 graduate of Hope College with a Bachelor of Music degree and received his Master of Education degree from Grand Valley State University in 2002. He is also a charter member of the Holland Area Chapter of the American Guild of Organists. The Van Oss' live in Zeeland, and both teach elementary music in the Zeeland Public Schools. They are the parents of two adult children.

Mr. Van Oss has presented organ recitals at various Holland, Michigan churches, as well as at Hope College. He has presented an Advent Organ Recital at First Reformed Church to appreciative audiences during the Advent season each year beginning in 1985. He was the accompanist for the Zeeland Youth Chorale when they sang in the Netherlands. He is also in demand as an organist for weddings, funerals, and other special services.

Mr. Van Oss enjoys composing organ and choral music. He has hymn tunes published in several hymnbooks, including the newest hymnbook of the Presbyterian Church and the new hymnbook of the Reformed and Christian Reformed Churches. To commission a piece for a special occasion, see the contact information below.

In addition, Mr. Van Oss and his wife are members of a recorder quartet, The Reformation Consort, along with Bill and Norma Ashby. This group has played in area churches and schools, including Madrigal Dinners at Hope College and Zeeland High School. The Reformation Consort is available to play for weddings or other special occasions as well.

If you have a need for an accomplished organist or recorder quartet, please contact him at rvanoss@hotmail.com. He will be happy to help you out if at all possible.

Powered by Create your own unique website with customizable templates.